Fast Rehab
When you have total knee replacement (TKR) surgery, recovery and rehabilitation is a crucial stage. In this stage, you'll get back on your feet and return to an active lifestyle.
The 12 weeks following surgery are very important for recovery and rehab. Committing to a plan and pushing yourself to do as much as possible each day will help you heal faster from surgery and improve your chances for long-term success.
Read on to learn what to expect during the 12 weeks after surgery and how to set goals for your healing.
What can you do at this stage?
Get plenty of rest. Your PT will help you get out of bed and walk a short distance. Work on bending and straightening your knee and use a CPM machine if you need one.
On day two you can stand up, sit, change locations, and use a toilet instead of a bedpan. You can walk a little further and climb a few steps with help from your PT. If you have waterproof dressings, you can shower the day after surgery.
At discharge, you may be able to:
- stand with little or no help
- go on longer walks outside your hospital room and rely on assistive devices less
- dress, bathe, and use the toilet on your own
- climb up and down a flight of stairs with help
Weeks 1–3
Activity- Walk and stand for more than 10 minutes. Start using a cane instead of crutches.
Treatment - Keep doing exercises to improve your mobility and range of motion. Use ice and a CPM machine at home if needed.
Weeks 4–6
Activity- Start returning to daily activities like work, driving, travel, and household tasks.
Treatment - Keep doing your exercises to improve your mobility and range of motion.
Weeks 7–12
Activity- Start returning to low-impact physical activities like swimming and stationary cycling
Treatment - Continue rehab for strength and endurance training and work to achieve a range of motion of 0–115 degrees.
Weeks 12+
Activity- Start returning to higher impact activities if your surgeon agrees.
Treatment - Follow the guidance of your PT and surgeon about any ongoing treatments.